FDA says Xarelto reduced fatal heart attacks

WASHINGTON 
The Food and Drug Administration says a blood thinner from Johnson & Johnson appears to reduce life-threatening blood clots in high-risk patients, although it also increases the risk of internal bleeding.

The FDA posted its review of J&J's Xarelto for the new use ahead of a public meeting Wednesday where medical experts will assess its safety and effectiveness.

J&J is now asking the FDA to approve it as a treatment for life-threatening blood clots in patients with narrowed blood vessels, who are at increased risk for heart attack, stroke and other catastrophic problems.